My mission is to help you achieve your wellness goals, whether you want to lose weight and keep it off, increase your energy, improve your cholesterol, blood sugar, or simply to feel and live better. I truly care about you and your health.

Sunday, February 16, 2014

As I was walking in my new sneaks, the usual thing happened. My right, wider foot started to feel weird, prickle, and go to sleep. Even though I buy wide shoes, my right foot has to go through this breaking in period while it stretches every shoe I buy to an acceptable width.

But, last year, someone showed me this great trick for lacing sneakers when you have wider feet, so I tried it. Unlace your sneaks, and check this out. It really works!

Monday, February 10, 2014

The screaming toddler was getting louder and louder. I had no idea what I was doing in the grocery store at 6 on a Saturday evening. But, there I was 3 deep in a self-checkout line that wasn't moving at all. And, the high voltage toddler was closing in.

As they walked by, the mom calmly talked to the 3 or 4-year-old boy dressed as Spiderman. She didn't yell, she didn't give in. They settled in line right next to me. I smiled at her and let her know I raised 3 kids and remembered the tantrum stage well. Then I turned to chat with Spidey himself for while, finding out that he also spends time as Batman and Superman.

Even in the midst of this crazed grocery store, his mom remained calm with excellent parenting. She didn't have a big cartload of food, but I did notice it was all healthy. Spiderman tried to coerce a candy bar, but it was nixed. I asked if I could give him a clementine, which was readily approved.

As this wonderful mom checked out, I looked at the healthy food and calm but tired little boy, and it made me happy. I wanted to give them both a hug...

Sunday, February 2, 2014

You say pasta sauce. I say Marinara sauce. No doubt we could create a healthier version from scratch with canned tomatoes, onion, garlic, and fresh herbs. Great to do when you have the time. Yet, sometimes, there's nothing like the ease of grabbing a jar of the Italian red sauce to make a quick, easy meal.

Be sure to take extra care to read before you grab your next jar! Some can be loaded with as many as 90-100 calories in a ½ cup serving, to say nothing of all the added sodium and sugars.

My goal is to find sauces that are under 50 calories per half cup, with no added sugars, and under 400 mg of sodium. If you've ever spent time examining all those pasta sauce labels, you know how overwhelming it can be. I found Classico Tomato & Basil awhile ago, and it's a great tasting pasta sauce that fits the bill, with only 45 calories! Woo-hoo!